Denisty Of Liquids And Irregular Solids

Density of a Solid

A substance's density is the ratio of its mass to its volume. The substance's mass is determined by weighing the sample. The volume of the substance can be measured by placing it in a liquid. The volume of liquid the substance displaces is its volume. From the substance's mass and volume the density may be calculated.

1. Mass the marble ball and record the mass in Table I.
2. Add enough water to the graduated cylinder so that it is about half full. Then carefully add water until the bottom of the meniscus is aligned with one of the marks on the cylinder. Record the volume as V(initial).
3. Carefully place the marble in the graduated cylinder by tilting the cylinder and letting the ball slide down the side. Be sure not to splash the water. Record the volume as V(final) in Table I.
4. Calculate the sample volume and determine the density.
5. Empty the cylinder of water and save the marble.

Table I- the Density of a Solid

Mass(g) Initial Volume(mL) Final Volume(mL) Sample Volume(mL) Density(g/mL)

Density of a Liquid

1. Mass the graduated cylinder and record as Mass one in Table 2.
2. Add a sample of the solution to the cylinder. Measure the volume exactly and record it in Table 2.
3. Mass the cylinder and the solution. Record the mass in Table 2.
4. Calculate the mass of the solution.

Table II, the Density of a Liquid

Solution #1 Solution #2 Solution #3

Mass of cylinder (mass initial, g)

Volume of solution(mL)

Density of solution(g/mL)